Kip’s Comments - April 17, 2024

Interesting Behavior

Since I had a little time this morning before work to fill, I opted to go paddling at Sweet Marsh. Conditions for wildlife photography couldn’t have been more challenging - dark and dreary with on and off drizzle, wind, and a moving canoe. As a result, any photography needed to be done at a high ISO.

Shooting at a higher ISO than normally means I can expect noisier images than I like. For a fellow who closely studies final photos - adding digital noise is not something I prefer. But, sometimes you have no options - like this morning.

As I rounded some cattails I spotted seven sandhill cranes along the edge. While I was shooting pictures the wind was pushing me toward the birds. Eventually I was wind-floated to within 25-or so yards, all as the cranes stood and watched me. I heard no sound from them and observed no pre-flight preparations taking place. The cranes just watched me.

Sandhill Cranes at Sweet Marsh - Image 875609

Since I did not want to cause the birds to alter their behavior, I slowly paddled away. Even then - with my movement and noise - the cranes did not call or take flight. Each of the birds watched me leave without incident. The group never did make noise that I could hear and they did not take flight. I am not sure what to make of such behavior.